2014 Honorees

Hilda Solis

Hilda L. Solis was confirmed as Secretary of Labor on February 24, 2009, becoming the first Latina to serve in the United States Cabinet. Prior to confirmation as Secretary of Labor, Solis represented the 32nd Congressional District in California, a position she held from 2001 to 2009.

In the Congress, Solis’ priorities included expanding access to affordable health care, protecting the environment, and improving the lives of working families. A recognized leader on clean energy jobs, she authored the Green Jobs Act which provided funding for “green” collar job training for veterans, displaced workers, at risk youth, and individuals in families under 200 percent of the federal poverty line. Read More…

Richard Zaldivar

Richard Zaldivar is the founder and executive director of The Wall Las Memorias Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting wellness and preventing illness among Latino populations affected by HIV/AIDS by using the inspiration of the AIDS Monument as a catalyst for social change. Combining HIV/AIDS education and prevention, sensitivity to the spiritual needs and religious beliefs of its clients and supporters, along with a commitment to social justice, The Wall Las Memorias, under Zaldivar’s leadership, has been in the forefront of the fight against HIV/AIDS in Los Angeles and beyond. As executive director, he oversees programs that reach out to Latino populations in the Los Angeles area, including men who are gay, bisexual and MSM, communities of faith and the general public. Read More…

Rossina Gallegos

Rossina Gallegos is the Vice President and Foundation/Community Outreach Officer for Union Bank. Rossina facilitates and manages the charitable contributions and Foundation requests in LA and Orange Counties. She also implements strategies, tactics, and programs to maximize the talent and availability of Union Bank employees with the needs of low- and moderate-income communities. Rossina’s community outreach efforts heighten Union Bank’s presence to address Bank’s Community Reinvestment Act commitment, public image opportunities, and employees’ desire for engagement. Read More…